Kenya’s tourism sector has gotten a boost after a cruise vessel with 1,100 tourists and 500 crew docked at the Mombasa port ahead of Easter Holiday.
The giant cruise ship christened Ms Ambience made its maiden voyage to Mombasa port in Wednesday signifying an economic boost ahead of the Christian holiday.
MS Ambience operated by Ambassador Cruise Line arrived at Mombasa port cruise terminal at 6am and was received by ministry of Tourism Principal Secretary John Olotuaa and Kenya tourism board officials.
Olotuaa said cruise ship tourism has been supported by the now operational ultra-modern Cruise Terminal which was developed by the Kenya Ports Authority to enhance passenger experience at the Port of Mombasa.
The cruise terminal has solidified Kenya’s position as a hub not only for cargo operations but also for cruise tourism in Africa.
The vessel sailed to the port early in the morning from Victoria port in Seychelles carrying 1,700 passengers of different nationalities who will spend two days in our coastal town sampling what the region has to offer.
“It has been a good cruise season for KPA, as we have received a fleet of vessels since the circuit began sometime in September last year,” said KPA.
Additional vessels are expected at the port before the cruise season ends next month. MS Ambience will call Durban from Mombasa.
MS Ambience captain Egil Aune confirmed the ship will be travelling along the world exploring different tourism destinations, but Kenya remains its preferred destination owing to its tourism products it offers.
Haniel Mengistu
